Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about municipal Wi-Fi.

Q: How could this affect me?

A: Residents and businesses who already have DSL or cable Internet service would be able to get online anywhere in the city, possibly at a reduced rate. Access also would be extended to residents living in neighborhoods that don't have Internet infrastructure. Low-income Houstonians would get service at the cheapest rates.

Q: How much will it cost?

A: EarthLink charges $21.95 and other Internet service providers are expected to offer similar prices, as low as $10 per month for low-income residents. Officials say the system will drive down prices across the market.

Q: How fast is the connection?

A: The contract requires download speeds of at least 1 Mbps, which is comparable to DSL service but slightly slower than cable. EarthLink says the mobile connection should be 20 times faster than dial-up service.

Q: Would it work indoors?

A: Yes, but users likely would need a device to boost the signal.

Q: What if I already have an Internet service provider when the network is completed?

A: Since all Internet service providers would have the option of paying EarthLink so their customers could access the network, customers could stay with their provider and buy wireless access as an added service. They could also switch to EarthLink or another provider.

Q: I live in Bellaire, which is surrounded by Houston. Will I get the signal?

A: Probably not, since the city hasn't made plans to provide services in non-city areas. But some stray signals might reach neighborhoods outside city limits.

Q: What would happen to other wireless networks around town, such as ones in coffee shops?

A: They, too, could access EarthLink's network. Or they could keep their existing service.

Q: How will EarthLink protect information traveling over the network?

A: Users will send and receive information using encryption software that officials say is secure. It requires a user name and password.